When discussing cannabis, many people quickly highlight its addictive potential. This has led to numerous myths about cannabis, with addiction being one of the most prevalent.

The truth about cannabis addiction

There is a common assumption that cannabis is highly addictive and more dangerous than tobacco and alcohol. However, these beliefs are myths, and the reality is different.

While it is incorrect to claim that cannabis is entirely harmless, it is also important to note that cannabis dependence is a real issue. Although no deaths have been reported solely due to cannabis use, this does not justify its abuse.

To draw a parallel, consider medicines: excessive use can lead to the body rejecting them, accompanied by side effects. Even seemingly benign substances like water can be harmful if consumed in excessive quantities. Cannabis is no exception. Moderate use, such as a few joints a week or even daily for some, might be acceptable. However, increasing the frequency to several joints a day can lead to cannabis dependence.

This warning applies primarily to those who abuse cannabis. But what about occasional users?

Understanding cannabis dependence

The Human Body and Cannabis

Unlike nicotine, which the body actively craves, cannabis does not induce the same physical dependency. Nicotine, though relatively harmless on its own, becomes addictive due to the presence of tobacco. This addiction drives the need for a cigarette. In contrast, the cannabinoids in cannabis mimic substances already naturally present in our bodies, such as anandamide, an endocannabinoid produced in the brain that is similar to THC found in cannabis.

Psychological Dependence

Cannabis can lead to dependence differently. While it might not create a physical need, it can develop into a psychological habit. The pleasurable high and relaxation from smoking cannabis can cause users to return to it even without physical cravings.

Research indicates that 67.5% of nicotine users, 22.7% of alcohol users, and 20.9% of cocaine users develop addiction. In comparison, only 8.9% of cannabis users become dependent.

Cannabis and Addiction

While the addiction rate for cannabis is lower compared to other substances, the fact that 8.9% of users do develop a dependency is significant. Whether due to boredom or the desire to relax after a stressful day, these users can become psychologically dependent on cannabis. Nonetheless, the addiction rate remains lower than that of commonly used substances like nicotine, alcohol, and hard drugs.

You might already have an idea, but defining cannabis dependence is crucial. Even researchers find it challenging to explain because the addiction isn’t as overt or widespread as it is with other substances.

Cannabis dependence occurs when you start relying on cannabis. Whether it’s to relieve stress, treat a medical condition, or for other reasons, you are considered cannabis dependent if you cannot go without it for a few days.

The good news is that quitting cannabis isn’t as difficult as quitting cigarettes or even alcohol. When you decide to quit these substances, your body craves them intensely, leading to agonising withdrawal symptoms that often cause relapse.

However, with cannabis, the withdrawal symptoms are not physical. You might feel that something is missing if you don’t smoke, but you won’t experience the severe physical symptoms associated with quitting tobacco or alcohol. Therefore, cannabis dependence is more of a psychological issue than a physical one.

How to break free from weed: A comprehensive guide

Who can develop cannabis dependence?

There are different types of cannabis users. Some use it recreationally, while others use it medicinally. Most medicinal users prefer buds rich in CBD, which do not produce a psychological high like THC, thus reducing the risk of addiction.

Some medicinal users may use THC-rich buds or concentrates like rosin or shatter for quicker effects. However, since they do this under supervision and not daily, they generally do not develop an addiction.

Recreational users who smoke occasionally at parties, perhaps once a week or month, also have a low risk of addiction. But some users do tend to abuse cannabis.

Even if you enjoy micro-dosing, using small amounts of weed (less than a gram) a day, you’re likely to be fine. However, if you smoke weed every couple of hours, you are certainly heading towards trouble.

Understanding the impact of cannabis vs nicotine

The progression of cannabis dependence

If you abuse cannabis, it may take several years—sometimes even up to a decade—to become completely addicted, but signs of dependence will appear sooner or later. Studies indicate that those seeking help for cannabis dependence are often under 25 years old.

This is likely because they began smoking at an early age when their brains were still developing, or because of other habits that contribute to dependence. Therefore, it is advisable not to indulge in cannabis at a young age. Most users start smoking around the ages of 13 or 14, which is when potential problems begin.

Although cannabis dependence is real, it is not as severe as the addiction associated with substances like alcohol, cigarettes, or hard drugs such as heroin and cocaine. Once a user becomes dependent on cannabis, they often continue due to a combination of environmental and emotional factors.

How to avoid cannabis dependence

While quitting cigarettes is widely recommended, some people find it less appealing to quit weed because of its numerous medicinal benefits. Cannabis can help with issues ranging from simple headaches to chronic pain.

So, why would anyone want to quit? Cannabis indeed makes you feel good and has significant benefits. However, if you find yourself smoking daily for several years and feel it’s impossible to cope without it, you may have become dependent on cannabis.

How to use cannabis to quit cigarettes

Taking a tolerance break

To prevent this issue, it’s crucial to stop using cannabis before it turns into a serious addiction. One effective method is to take a tolerance break.

A tolerance break involves abstaining from cannabis for at least 15 days. Continuous use of cannabis over several years can lead your body to develop a tolerance, prompting you to seek stronger strains or increase your intake.

During a tolerance break, the levels of THC in your body decrease significantly. This not only helps you enjoy cannabis more when you resume, but also prevents dependence from developing. By taking regular breaks, you can address the problem before it becomes serious, making this a practical approach to managing your cannabis use.

 

Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before using any THC product.